Robert J. Gilliland and Skunk Works

<p>Test pilot Robert J. Bob Gilliland entered the annals of aviation greatness on 22 December 1964 when he took to the California skies as the first pilot of the SR-71 Blackbird aircraft. This sortie marked the first flight of the world's highest and fastest flying aircraft. At the controls Gilliland flew the aircraft to speeds of Mach 1.5 and an altitude of 50000 feet. As remarkable as the famed Blackbird itself the story of the man who initially tested and flew the Blackbird is just as compelling. Bob Gilliland's life story exhibits early and continuous academic discipline admirable military service and unique military flying opportunities all which ushered in new and continuous challenges. Ultimately he lived an aviator's dream piloting the most advanced systems in the world. Gilliland is a perceptive studious and remarkably astute test pilot who had the distinct honor and privilege of working for the world's most pre-eminent aircraft designer Kelly Johnson as part of the Lockheed Skunk Works. Moreover he is humble and attributes much of his success to upbringing education and strategic opportunities. Gilliland's service to both country and mission are harrowing and exciting and through examination of his unique story it is possible to personify the true aviation legend that he is. Bob Gilliland's dedication and determination capture the American spirit of innovation danger and success during a generation of technological greatness.</p><p>This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore you will see the original copyright references library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world) and other notations in the work.</p><p>This work is in the public domain in the United States of America and possibly other nations. Within the United States you may freely copy and distribute this work as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.</p><p>As a reproduction of a historical artifact this work may contain missing or blurred pages poor pictures errant marks etc. Scholars believe and we concur that this work is important enough to be preserved reproduced and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.</p><br>